USDA Loan

No. USDA eligibility covers many ordinary small towns and suburban-edge areas, not just farmland. In Whatcom and Skagit Counties, communities like Everson, Nooksack, Sumas, and areas around Blaine and Sedro-Woolley often fall inside eligible territory. Eligibility follows the USDA's map street by street, so the only way to know for sure is to check the specific address — which I'm happy to do.

Yes — eligible buyers purchasing in eligible areas can finance 100% of the purchase price. You should still plan for closing costs, though sellers can contribute toward them, and the loan includes a USDA guarantee fee that can be rolled into the financed amount.

Yes. Your total household income must fall under the USDA limit for your county and household size. The limits are set relative to area median income and are higher than many people expect, so don't rule yourself out without checking the current numbers for Whatcom or Skagit County.

Not traditional PMI. USDA loans use an upfront guarantee fee plus a modest annual fee, which together often cost less than the mortgage insurance on a comparable low-down-payment conventional or FHA loan. I can compare the real monthly numbers for your situation.